USING GRAPHICS IN CONTINUING COVERAGE

Coverage of the terrorist attacks in New York and Washington showcased television graphics at their best, and sometimes at their worst. Graphics can be helpful to viewers trying to follow a complex story, or they can add an unnecessary layer of visual clutter, leading to confusion.

NewsLab offers a few suggestions and cautions on the use of graphics in continuing coverage.

• Simpler is better. Spinning globes, multiple logos, double-box framing and layers of graphics get in the way of the story when the video and information are as compelling as they are in this case. Stay clear of clutter to help viewers process.
  
  
• Split screens can be confusing. Strong video requires-even demands-viewers' attention. Putting emotionally compelling video from two different locations on-screen at the same time makes it more difficult for viewers to absorb what they are seeing and what it means.
  
  
• Locators are essential when cutting between scenes in which the video is similar, like recovery efforts in two different places. Viewers need help in the form of words on screen to let them know precisely what they are looking at.
  
  
• Identify file video clearly and consistently. Using the word "file" in small font in one corner of a busy screen is not enough. When airing other video of previous, related events add a date and locator.
  
  
• Beware of bugs and other graphic identifiers on video you are re-airing. Make sure that any "live" bugs are covered up completely with a "recorded earlier" graphic, or a specific date to avoid confusing viewers.
  
  
• Update viewers. Scrolling or changing graphics at the bottom of the screen can be effective for repeating updated information. But be mindful of the effort it takes for viewers to read words on screen. If an anchor or reporter is providing crucial, new information, pause the ticker to help viewers focus.
  
  
• Label maps. Give viewers a frame of reference for information presented in the form of a map. Make sure the labels are large enough to read, and that they show locations most viewers are already familiar with.